Former Union Home Ministry official RVS Mani, who had publicly alleged political pressure to fabricate a “Saffron terror” narrative during the UPA government, has been awarded the Padma Shri on the eve of Republic Day. Mani is among the 113 recipients of India’s fourth-highest civilian honour this year.
A former Under Secretary in the Ministry of Home Affairs, Mani had claimed that in 2009 he was forced to sign a second affidavit to build a narrative of “Saffron terror” while serving in the internal security division. He detailed these allegations in his book Hindu Terror: Insider Account of Ministry of Home Affairs 2006–2010, describing what he called political interference in terror-related investigations.
Mani, a career civil servant, has also served in the Ministries of Information and Broadcasting, Urban Development, and Textiles. Over the years, he has emerged as a vocal commentator on internal security and governance issues. His other books include Deception: A Family That Deceived the Whole Nation, Bhagva Aatank Ek Shadyantra, and Dalals, which focus on political manipulation, national security narratives, and institutional integrity.
The Padma Shri recognition has renewed attention on Mani’s role as a whistleblower and author, with supporters viewing the honour as acknowledgement of his stand on national security issues, while critics continue to dispute his claims. The award underscores the continuing debate over the politicisation of internal security during the UPA era.
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